Ventajas del reforzamiento de muros de bloques de tierra compactados (BTC), como opción para el rescate de viviendas rurales

Experimental research was made in compressed soil block (BTC) piles. These specimens were reinforced with hexagonal mesh and welded wire mesh to determinate its mechanics characteristics by means of axial and diagonal compression, and flexion tests. We made experimental assays in accord with Mexican Code specifications of NTCM⁽¹⁾ and UNAM⁽²⁾ Engineering Institute researchers. In axial compression test, the piles reinforced with welded wire mesh had a significant increase in maxim admissible load (39%) but had not in masonry strength (4%). In diagonal compression test, the reinforced groups had significant increases in both, load capacity (90-125%) and masonry strength (60-83%). The strength and deformation capacity were higher in specimens reinforced with welded wire mesh. In the flexion test had similar results. Although the compression, shear and flexion design parameters was determinate, it's important and necessary to make more tests to corroborate these results.